Philippines DOE Streamlines Philippines net metering to Boost Rooftop Solar Adoption
The Philippine Department of Energy (DOE) has announced significant reforms to its net metering framework, a move designed to slash approval times, simplify procedures, and accelerate the adoption of rooftop solar across the nation. This overhaul aligns with the government’s broader vision of lowering electricity prices and empowering consumers to participate in the clean energy transition.
Key Streamlining Measures for Philippines net metering
A major pain point for aspiring solar users has been the lengthy and often complex application process. The revised framework directly addresses this by establishing strict, standardized processing timelines for Local Government Units (LGUs).
Key changes include:
* Faster Permit Issuance: LGUs are now required to issue electrical permits within three business days.
* Expedited Inspections: The release of final electrical inspection certificates must be completed within seven business days.
* Automatic Approval: In a crucial step to ensure compliance, applications will be automatically “deemed approved” if LGUs fail to act within these deadlines. This allows consumers to move forward with their net metering connection upon providing proof of submission and payment.
Further administrative hurdles have been removed through the acceptance of electronic signatures on net metering agreements and a reduction in overall documentation requirements.
Enhanced Benefits for Rooftop Solar Users in Philippines net metering
Beyond simplifying the application process, the reforms introduce new financial and practical benefits for those who invest in solar energy.
- Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs): Eligible net metering participants can now retain ownership of the RECs generated by their systems. These certificates can be sold or traded in renewable energy markets, creating an additional income stream for solar owners.
- Multi-site and Aggregated Metering: The new rules introduce greater flexibility, allowing consumers to share electricity credits across multiple accounts under the same distribution utility. This means a home or business with surplus solar generation at one location can use those credits to offset electricity costs at another site.
A Strategic Push for Clean Energy with Philippines net metering
The Philippines first introduced its net metering program in 2013 for systems with a capacity of up to 100 kW. As of May 2025, the country had reached 157 MW of net-metered installed capacity.
These latest reforms build upon earlier updates from the Energy Regulatory Commission in September 2025, which called for a nationwide standardization of net metering procedures. According to Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin, the initiative directly supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen the program, making it easier for more Filipinos to generate their own clean electricity and export surplus power back to the grid.
